Moses Lake and the beauty of OFF ROAD!

Dunes are awesome. I didn't actually go biking, but it was awesome. Perfect sand leading up to perfect temp water. My boy is now a professional dog paddler. What a great weekend!

Utah - Studio Soiree

May 18th - 20th
Another studio that has fantastic girls. I should tell you that I really don't like girls. So when I say these are fantastic women, you better believe it.
Chastitie from Goddess Arts Academy NW came down as well and got in on some of the action.

I also taught a boy! for the first time on the tour. I definitely hope to see more of those in the future.
I only stayed in Utah for two days. Day one started two groups, a private, a meet and greet and a power our. Now my eight and ninth days at work, my butt is feeling a little sore. I can still sit down and everything though :)
I got to meet Meagan from Adult Dance and Fitness, the main person behind Miss Pole Dance - Utah or "Fetish" as I believe it is formally titled.

Lizz is also the founder of the PFA. The Pole Fitness Association which I am happy to say I am a member of. Sometimes it is hard to tell if the people running something have the right intentions. She's cool. To bring us as a community together. Go to the website and check it.
I have to admit, I was a little worried about coming to Utah. I'm not exactly the kind of person you would see just walking down the street there. Again, like at the Seattle Erotic Arts Festival, my eyes are opened and I slap myself for having misconceptions. BAD PANTERA!
Here's Lizz and I. Thanks so much for a great few days love. I hope to we can make another round of it. Do you think we could last six days?

"Wow, is almost all I can say after her Uber Advanced workshop is oh, so Uber!!! Uber inspiring, Uber educational, Uber FUN!! The energy and education she brought to our studio, and students is something we have been waiting for.....her and this type of knowledge for a long time. This workshop has changed my personal pole practice for life. I absolutely adore this this woman, what she does, and what she did for me." -Lizz Schofield, CEO and President of Studio Soiree.

New Mexico - Exotica In Motion

May 15th - 17th Most fantastic Exotica In Motion
I love this place! I loved the weather, I loved my hosts, I loved the students, I loved the food! All I can say is these guys can invite me to dinner anytime, and I will come, from anywhere to join them!
My fourth day into the southwest tour and I am starting to feel like a work horse. Sure Pussycats worked me, but this women was semi brutal. It was metal. Three meet and greets, Three private lesson and a two hour workshop....all in two days. My shoulders and lats are feeling it. They are getting CUT UP! I can say the 15lbs I want is starting to show its massive head. Muscles, here I come!
If you are ever in Albuquerque, NM stop in and see Michelle and Jen. They have the most awesome personalities that anyone's life would brightened to have them in it.
The only thing that could have made this trip better would be a longer duration. Sometimes its hard to say how people will be when you meet them face to face. Sometimes the coolest people can't get along. With that in mind I always try to schedule the first visit short. Makes it easier for everyone. This trip, Arizona, New Mexico and Salt Lake, was a trip that should have been much longer!


"You are such an amazing teacher!! You're incredibly talented as a performer, but your ability to break things down as a teacher is a skill all on its own. You are so patient!!!! (I promise I will learn to slow down!) As a teacher myself, I know first hand not everyone can be a teacher, but you are truly the best. You do a fantastic job of meeting people at their level and building on that-whatever skill or strength level they're at! You challenge people and push them to be their best, yet leave them feeling successful and proud of their progress. I am so motivated to improve and grow! Thank you so much for your patience and encouragement!!! You totally ROCK!!!!!"

PPW in Arizona - Pussycats Pole Dancing

May 12th - 14th, 2009

What an absolutely hot place! I am beginning to see why so many come to the southwest. The landscape is beautiful, the pole dancers are awesome....
Nyla at Pussycats Pole Dancing is an awesome individual and pole enthusiast. We share many of the same opinions and views about teaching and technique. I am so glad to have met her and cannot wait to play on the blazing poles of Scottsdale, AZ again!
Nyla introduced me to Shawn Frances Lee, creator of the Pole Cat Power method, one of the first pole instructors in California and one of us "cool pole" chica's ;) The three of us had the most awesome time talking and discussing pole dancing, like us pole dancers do. I was introduced to the hookah and its "traditional uses." I have to say flavored tobacco is an awesome relax after a days worth of teaching.
Shawn Frances Lee, Nyla of Pussycats Pole Dancing, and Pantera B after the performance at Cherry!
I also got to see my very old and most beloved friend Fiona, whom moved from to Seattle to Tuscon last year. It was like no time had past as you will see by our hammy photo.
Workshops were fantastic. The girls here really motivated to train properly and effectively thanks to Nyla's course outline. Its so nice to work with great instructors! I cannot wait to come back and see how far these girls have come through.
"Thanks so much for getting me off the ground."
"You are going to HEAVEN! Word. For Real. Thanks! You rock not only as a pole trickster, but as an instructor. You are competent, clear and thorough. I’ve always thought I was a hard instructor – tough on my girls but caring at the same time and I feel that quality in you as well. It’s been a very long time since an instructor gave ME a serious workout and challenged me – I needed it! ANYTIME – you have a place to go." – Nyla Pussycats Pole Dancing

Oregon...PDEx

I love Oregon. It is so similar to Seattle except for the fact that the weather is nice sooner, the people are great and friendly, and I also love the drive. I have yet to stop in Portland yet for workshops. So the regular three hour drive is really seven hours becuase I'm driving down to Medford one more time to visit Pole Dance Experience.
Dawn is a great host. She has a great amount of passion pole dancing that is seldom seen. You can see it in her students and other instructors as well.
I also got meet Kathy, who runs the boutique there. She has an eye for picking pretty things that Pantera likes. So in my little owrld we call Kathy "The Devil."
I only hosted a meet and greet and a few privates while at PDEx. I taught their advanced instructor Tiffany and even learned a new trick from some of their beginning students! Thanks girls!
It was a short trip as the first ones always are. Vinny comes along for the drive and everyone loved him. Of course, he is after all my dog! He did however have a little accident while in Medford, but there is no reason to go into details. He's fine and no one was hurt. Better leave it at that :)
I also got to meet up with Tammy from Pole Dance Fitness again and for the first time Linda at Pole Dance 4 Fitness in Grants Pass.
Always a pleasure ladies. Maybe next time we can get all three studios together and have a real event. Oregon has never seen
anything like that before. Well maybe...

Seattle Erotics Arts Festival

This was my first experience at an event such as this. I got to perform in the same arena as some of the most brilliant performers Seattle has to offer. We also had many visiting performers. I loved it and cannot wait to do it again next year!
The art, the people the acts. My eyes are open even further. I am so amazed and shocked that I have not been to this event before. Shame on me! Come check it out next year and you will be pleasantly surprised!

I got suspended!!
Thank you Rod and Brother Tiger of Suspended Animation!!
Venixor Productions Made this little promotional video!

World Pole Dance Sport and Fitness in JAMAICA

JAMAICA RULES!!
Seven days on one of the most amazing islands in the world, with nudity, pole dancers and unlimited drinks! I went to heaven and then came home to cold ass Seattle. Not all stories have happy endings I suppose :)
This is my second trip to Hedo III and it felt like the first time. Except for the staff and entertainment crew giving me a warm welcome and signing me up for all the skits and volunteer events. Which are awesome because the more of an ass you make of yourself the more bottles of Jamaican Rum you win! I only won once this time around :(

The resort is absolutely gorgeous. I would have posted more pics but cameras aren't allowed in most of the areas I hang out ;)
This time around there were flash rains. I love rain, and having it be so warm and moist is one of my favorite things. The sun was shining, the people were fabulous (goes out to all the competitors, organizors, non polers, my friends that weren't there ;) resort staff, entertainment crew and most definitely the bartenders!)
It is a rarity to get all these fab peeps in one place at one time. Thank you Kay and Steve Penney of Pole Passion and World Pole Sport and Fitness, you're vision has brought so much of us together after such cloudy days. Including the ones that left me homeless in the streets of Amsterdam back in 2005.
To be involved in something as big as the WORLD FINALS puts a little in perspective. Things that I have over looked in the past have become, suddenly quite clear. It takes many different types of people to have made this happen. To be
one of them is just bad ass. That says many things to me concerning my talent and personality that I won't be taking for granted.
Tammy- I love you for being so up for anything...besides eating things like snails :) We've had some fun over the last five years, you taught me my "u's" and "a's." I owe you for that one.

Riley- You are so my super hommie. You're so not a suck ass and I love you for that. Cannot wait to play in the summer time!

Chastitie- I loved your performance, even though you didn't want to do it and thank you for humoring me. I put a lot on you sometimes and you always come through.

Anthony- You're the shiznittyfabulouso. More Rum and less ketchup next time, k?

Felix- We totally had sex ;)

Alesia- I knew you would rock it after I saw you in England. It was my honor to balance you above me :)

Tracey- You are so demur I love it. I hope our paths cross many times in the future.

Deb- You are forever the coolest. I love kickin it with you. Even when you're working.

Marcela- Teach me some of that hot Latin spice you got going on. PS - Call Hawaiian Tropic!!

Reiko- I am working very hard on my Japanese. I hope when we meet again you will be able to understand me as well as I do you.

Vanilla- Remember, I am staying with you next time I come to Japan! You said so.

Sabrina "The German"- I am forever in love with you. Ever since Amsterdam. Super Mädchen Crush

Jeannine- I will always think of you as the princess of the show. You were alwasy so beautiful, I could learn I thing or two about that.

Orsi- I am such an asshole. I've been calling you Ozzy all this time. I owe you one, call it a favor. Whatever you want.

Elena "The Russian"- Our visits are always so short. I long for the day you and I can sit at a table, drink win and become the friends I know we are supposed to be. Download Skype.

Alma- I didn't get to speak with you much and I think I'm at a loss for it. I hope we have more of a chance next time around.

Arkos- Alma's Hubbie, I was so honored that you started your lesson with one of my tricks. I hope I will once again get the opportunity to hang with the hottest couple at Hedo!!

And finally Amy- I wish I had more of an opportunity to hang out with you as well. The brief moments we got chit chat were fun. Next time lovey, we'll tear the house down!

Oregon - Pole Dance Fitness & National Pole Dance Academy

April 3rd - 5th 2009
Tammy is fantastic and the most hospitable host. I love her tattoos and we will have to get a photo of them together some time (hint hint). I didn't get a photo with Marni form National Pole Fitness Academy :( where the workshops were held. She has some of the tallest poles I've been on in a studio, which was beautiful. I especially the little nostalgic things about it. The dog on the wall...

10 mile hike with Tammy, her student Zanna and her friend, and my baby boy Vincent. Zanna, you're a brut! Next time rock climbing! :) We almost got ran over by mountain bikers!

Loving the great weather. Hope it stays that way every time I come down.

I look forward to my future trips down to this beautiful part of the country!

Los Angeles

The ladies of Heart & Pole in Torrance!
It was a very fun workshop, Trina was fantastic except that she agreed to meet another gal and I for dinner and totally no showed. Thought it was totally lame of her to do that.


Including that little tidbit, this was such a horrible experience for me personally.


The girl whom I had organize my trip failed miserably. Jeopardizing my reputation, friendships with pole dancers in the LA area and almost sent me off the deep end mentally. I had to fix all the mistakes she made along the way, keep my sanity and continue the highest quality of pole dance instruction. Thank god I stayed with friends, your wisdom helped me immensely.



I'd also like to give a shout out my favorite Penis, I cannot wait to come visit you in PA, you made the whole trip so fun and fantastic and it was awesome to meet a real person who wasn't afraid to swear and drink with me. Hugs and Kisses!!


This next upcoming trip to CA will prove to be 100%.
July 27th - Aug 5th!

San Francisco - Pilates on the Peninsula

Pilates on the Peninsula was so awesome. Noelle, who had come up to Seattle for a private lesson (that’s how we met) is absolutely fantastic. She scheduled my visit along side her students regular show case where I got to meet all the students, their friends, family and watch some amazing pole dancing.
Two of her students choreographed an over dramatic battle scene with matching outfits. Where one actually died, falling off the pole. It was awesome.
Noelle’s performance was freaking intense. I almost fell backwards off my chair a few times. She has quite an overwhelming look when she wants to.
Her other students were fantastic as well. Playing music I had never heard before, displaying alternate styles, great costumes and accessories, while entertaining the crowd at the same time. I thought to myself, they do this every month, what a lucky bunch of gals.
We ended the night at a Mexican restaurant that was quite good. I’m always nervous in new groups of people so I end up being rather quiet until I get comfortable. From what my company may tell you, was not a very long at all. They are a very welcoming group of ladies, very sweet and relaxed.
I did stay at a a crap hotel, it served its purpose but did give me a little bit of an uneasy feeling when I saw the lock.

My view was absolutely awesome also! Shame on me for not getting photos!

The next day I had the group and private lessons. All the girls did so well. Usually there is always the “know it all” and the “Snotty Sally,” but this group got along famously and was pretty even as far skill goes. With the exception of their instructor who was present as well.
I love it when instructors are more than one step ahead of their students. It shows the sense of responsibility all instructors should have.
All in all, Noelle gave me a fantastic experience in San Fran and I cannot wait to hit it up one more time!

Blacksmiths Cabaret

What a great and fun time I have had being involved with this show. Endor is a fantastic promoter and has really got something going on here that is sure to raise some heads. Will be doing an update soon!

First Thursday of the month @ Club Heaven on 2nd & Washington downtown Seattle. Check It!

Miss Pole Dance Japan 2008

I don't know what day it is except that it is the third of January and I have been in Japan since the 29th of December. I am all screwed up on time but I haven't had any jet lag effect what so ever. The culture shock I was originally anticipating was not as great as what I thought and the only difficulty I have is my inability to communicate well with the locals, which in time I will be sure to remedy and with the encouragement from my Japanese friends I will be sure to be saying the correct things. I have a new determination to learn Japanese. Anyone want to hook up on Skype and be my speaking buddy?

Miss Pole Dance Japan was a great success for pole dancing and for the competitors involved. I cannot believe how many people crammed into the tiny little venue. I haven't been in a bar in so long where they allow cigarettes to be smoked. Japanese way is to party hard until 6 AM! Needless to say with my growing age I cannot party until 6 am anymore.

The pole dancing style is much different here than anywhere else. Where the rest of the world seems to be doing much of the same thing and is not afraid to share it through such avenues as youtube, myspace, facebook etc etc. This little island seems to be tucked away. Maybe the language barrier, maybe just being overlooked. Regardless of why, I cannot wait until people see what Japan has to offer. Its an untapped resource.

Surely it's a great opportunity since the organizers are very well connected with performance agencies and venues. I cannot wait to see the winner Vanilla in Jamaica. It will be an awesome event for her to compete at such a high platform with dancers from around the world.

The food here in Japan is not as scary as I originally thought it was going to be. I've welcomed three square meals a day and have not turned down anything. However today after class Reiko took me to a conveyor belt sushi place where I tried everything except for scary crawdad looking stuff. Reiko said she didn't even like it t=so I thought I was safe declining. Although I did try sea urchin and eel. Which were not good at all! Uni damay!! Probably spelt wrong but it was funny to the locals who could understand my Japanese. Thanks to Reiko and Kumi for helping me through the struggles that is my language barrier.

Miss Pole Dance Christmas Party 2008

How fun was this night!
I only had a few jobs assigned to me. Lucky enough for me we stickered several of the masks in the car.
I meet so many new people and saw some very old friends. Whats Up Sabrina!?!? "The German" was as beautiful as ever.
I have never come to England twice in one year but I sincerely hope that I can do it more in the future. I always enjoy the people, except for that guy at McDonalds and I always love the events.
I performed twice both to Xmas music. Fun Fun Fun.
My favorite bartender was still there, Hiya DAVE! and I was smart enough to get his email this time.
I only had one day of classes this time around. This trip wasn't so much about teaching as it was a social outing for me. Which is super because I spend so much time during workshops. I like that people have an opportunity to meet me.

Miss Pole Dance UK 2008 - The Whole 10 Days

10 October, 2008
Got to Sea-Tac at about 5 am and after a humorous adventure with the rep ast the ticket counter was quickly on my way through security. Which for the first time ever I was not singled out and went through without a hitch.
A five hour flight to Douglas Int in Charlotte, NC later, I found my gate and settled in for a nice long four hour lay over. Met a man named Gerald who was from France but lived in Quebec. Learned all kinds of things about Quebec, France and Gerald over a Carolina Blonde, which is actually good for beer.
Gerald departed around 7 and my flight was to board around 7:15. Delayed for about another 1.5 hours, long enough to get settled in next to a fine lady whose name I didn't catch, but she had the most amusing travel stories.
Boarding finally happened and I got the dumb luck of sitting next to a pro polo player! Didn't know there was a pro circuit (Miami Vice taught me nothing) but apparently this guy was one of the top players. By his own definition was just below the real cream of the crop. He was quite enormous as well, barely able to squeeze into the seat next to me.
We watched Iron Man after the in flight meal which he gave me his. Apparently he was in the same restaurant as Gerald and I drinking Carolina Blonds! Having to many, lost his appetite and fell asleep half way through the movie. All in all made a very nice travel companion and pillow. So about one third of the way through my 8 hour flight across the pond I joined my new horse riding buddy in dream land.

11 October, 2008
Stoke On Trent
I woke up today without the help of my hosts, which is not the way things normally happen here :) or anywhere before double digit time! Got a shower and packed for my run to Stoke to met up with Riley. This girl has been a super hommie since she sent me good luck wishes when I competed at the MPD World finals in Amsterdam all those years ago. Thank god I responded or would have really missed out on a cool chick.
Had the usual UK breaky of eggs on toast with tea. Added some OJ and yogurt and rushed out the door with just enough time to catch the train at Three Bridges, but without my sunglasses. I comically refer to my hosts as the parents on occasion because it makes things funnier. This was the first time they have ever left me alone in travel. Was quite nervous about figuring trains and such. Made it to Watford Junction and caught the Virgin train to Stoke on Trent.
Pulling up to the station I see Riley with the largest smile on her face. After our quick traditional "squeally girl" greeting (which I rarely do unless I'm mocking the situation. Wasn't this time, I just love seeing her), we rushed off to her studio, Riley's Pole Queens.
After an hour of my own warm up and a cup of tea my first student arrived. What up B!?!?! Thanks again for the elephants and hooters!Then a double with A & S. Then an interview with Pole 2 Pole magazine. I thought it went pretty well, but we'll see how it all turns out.
Then the days classes were through, the parents let me go to Birmingham after some begging to view the Pole Divas final regional heat. I picked 2 of the 3 winners.
Off to get cheeseburgers and chips afterward with F, B, S and J. Was quite the comical evening. Riley set me up looking for a "chippy" which after all the girls had a laugh when I asked a doorman where one was, he directed us us to the Big Boy which ended up being Big Bite. I've had quite the time managing the accents this time around.
12 October 2008
My host and I woke, ate some breaky and was out the door by 8 am. On our way to Hull today to visit Pole 4 Fitness with Clare. What a fantastic studio she has got going. Three floors of fitness wonderland. Three separate pole studios, a martial arts room and a gym room. Not to mention the womens changing room had blow dryers and little stools. Spoiled you can get there :)
The day started with the sisters M + S who I'd have to say were some of the funnest gals I've had the pleasure of teaching. Not to much chit chat and focused on what they were doing.
Then we had the group class which was half instructors from Pole 4 Fitness and half Pole 4 Fitness students. I love it when everyone in the group knows one another. It makes for a more social and playful atmosphere. We had Clare, C, E, E, G, P, L and S.
When I do group classes I try and maintain a level where everyone can participate in the class. I specialize in creating programs that will challenge beginners and advanced at the same time. Since the levels in this class were greatly different I look forward to next years groups having guidelines for sign up.
After lessons, R and I went back to Stoke for some dindin, made by her fabulous husband. Watched some Janice Dickinson drama and went to bed. Very early morning tomorrow!!

13 October, 2008
I have been having quite the time with my phone on this trip. Not only does it not work (no calls, email, im, anything) I am incapable of setting my alarm properly. This is the second time I have set the time instead of the alarm and Riley has almost no clocks in her house. I love the no pressure with time and everything but for farce...
So instead of waking up at half 5, I woke up at 5 am!! The reason for this early morning run is we were traveling to Bristol which is about 2/2.5 hours away from where we were. Plus driving through busy cities on a Monday morning isn't easy as we well know in Seattle. Poor Riley, anyone who has been on road trips with me knows I'm the worst companion, as she does from our adventures two years back. I fall asleep. If the trip is longer than an hour, I'm out. I guess the hum of the road soothes me or something.
Any who, we get to Bristol at the fabulous Pole Progression studio just in time to make it on time. Dam M5. The ladies were kind enough to let me chill out and get my game face on before we started. The day started with a group class of eight (I love getting an even number) and included again instructors and students. We had Claire (head instructor at Pole Progression), J, D, J, L, A, R, and A. This was definately a class I will never forget.
The rest of the day was 1-2-1 lessons with S (love your shoulders babe, you were fantastically fun), I (impressed with your pace of learning), M (a great pleasure my dear, can't wait to see what you're doing next year), and C who came back with A from the group class). I was impressed that A had come back. Showed to me she was very determined to excel in her pole skill. These two were on a mission. They encouraged each other and seemed to work very well together. Something all of us can take a cue on. I can't tell you how many times I've worked with girls and had them just piss each other off.
This was the longest day of the tour thus far and I was a sack of crap by the end. We took some fun pictures at the end and started the drive home. I remember telling Riley after she told me to go to sleep that I was gonna stay awake and keep her company. I think it was about two minutes later that I gave up and passed out. I hate sleeping in cars. No matter how long I get some shut eye it always just seems like a blink.
When we got back to hers, that fab hubby of hers had din all ready for us again. I swear I will have a man like the women of the UK do. Almost every girl I've met that has a boy I just love. K's hubby, R's, T's...and I think that's about it. At least of the top of my head :)
Night was pretty done, we were so tired that we couldn't sleep. Took me a minute to settle my brain and pass out.

15 October 2008
Today was a pretty lax day. It was the first of only two off days I had for the entirety of the trip. It was nice to have a break, but it still didn't mean I could take a break. Had to be on a train back to the PP HQ. So I woke up and packed the few things I had taken with me and got dropped off. I totally cannot wait to be back in your hood baby doll. XOXOXOX
So on the train I went. I am starting to get really good at riding the trains around. I have no idea where any of them go or the times or how they work. So when I say I've been getting good at getting around on them what I really mean is that I am really good at asking the guys in the orange vests. I am amazed every time that they know the number (which is usually the time the train comes), the platform (which at some rail stations can be up to 20) and where it goes. These guys must have to pass a test or something.
I did however get stuck on the train thanks to the very first rude English people I've come in contact with. I'm carrying a huge side bag, a mini pack and a hand bag. These young boys get on the train and instead of getting out of my way so I could exit, just stood there in the middle of the isle. So I get out of their way, they pass me without even saying thank you, get to the door, push the button and to my amazement...they don't open. The guy who saw all this looked at me with big eyes wondering if I was going to freak out. I didn't...I'm patient. I had to listen to those dumb guys talk about stupid kid stuff all the way to the next station where I had to double back. Poop experience #1.
Got back to HQ and relaxed for the rest of the day. Watched some TV. Played on the Wii with the kids for a bit. Got my bootie wasted at a tank game by a 10 year old. Nothing is better for the ego. Then went to the salon to get me nails done. Bright neon pink with airbrush black tiger strips. Yes, with matching toes as well. I must be going crazy!
To bed in my lovely conservatory!! Home sweet home!!

16, October 2008
So today was the real test of my rail way expertise. Dad dropped me off at Three Bridges and I had to make it to Reading by a certain time to met up with Jolene at Purity Pole. So, to let the fun begin, I forgot the phone they had given me. So I have no way of contacting anybody in Reading or for my return back, I had no phone numbers. Plus, I forgot my own phone so I couldn't take any pics at all throughout the days journey.
I got on the train and had to make three connections until I arrived at Reading West. Found Jolene's studio and luckily she was outside and recognized me. I have to say it felt pretty cool to walk up like I knew what I was doing, hiding the map in my back pocket before she could see :)
This was also my first time having to handle the paper work. I am never good at this end of things. I always forget things like getting feedback and signing photos.
Group class started and this was definitely a social group. I'm guessing Jolene sees these gals on a regular basis or they all know each other well. We had Jolene (of course), I, A, C, L, C, M, S and E. C and E were from Pole Fit and they kicked down a tank top for me. Wait to see that one in new pics babes!!!
After the group I had two privates with Jolene and M. I couldn't work Jolene too hard because she was getting ready for MPD UK the following night. Which by the way my love you did very well. Twas nice to see you perform live instead of in photograph form :)
M took a private from me when I was here two years. She is still as gorgeous as ever!!
Jolene did me the honor of driving me to Reading Station where I was to catch the first of 3/4 trains home. In our conversation she informed me of what a "wanker" is. Which in America it would be termed a "jerk off." It's nice to know the slang.
I made it home safe and sound. Calling me UK Dad from Gatwick Rail Station and getting it sorted. It all worked out very well although I will have to admit the long hours, travel and lack of rest has started to wear me down. Good thing I'm a machine!!!

16 October 2008
The BIG day!!
Don't remember the time I woke up, but HQ was full of life when I crawled out of my conservatory. We got the tea going and had some breaky. The team finished loading up the van and getting the last bits of paperwork finished up. Then there we were, waiting for my personal body guard.
After he arrived, we made sure everything was loaded (after a cup of tea of course) and loaded up in the car headed for Scala. The drive was so fun. With just the excitement buzzing it seemed to have taken FOREVER.
The venue was spectacular. In fact the only thing I didn't like about it was the stars. Flight after flight after flight. It seemed to never end. I got assigned the task of making sure all the contestants had read the rules, release and signed the British flags. Running up and down those stairs all day sure made my booty look real good for the show! Hahaha
The time had come for me to prepare. After getting the ladies good and tied down I entered stage right to a massive crowd that was as excited to see me as I was to see them!! All the contestants were fantastic, some a little scary, and some made me nervous. I was told that some of my faces were priceless! Was a grand show and it was nice to see some old faces as well as some new.
The after hours show was fantastic. Almost all the contestants stuck around to get down with the rest of us. After the one glass of champagne plus refill I had to switch it up. That bubbly never does good in my tumbley. So, since they didn't have Patron (my favorite/drink of choice) the only thing to choose was Southern Comfort. So I wowed the men of England with the help of a new favorite bartender, Dave. THANKS DAVE!!!!
After the "after party," the few of us that remained took off from Scala to our final destination, some hostel that was just down the street. Funny that, I remember the bartenders name but not the hostels...hmmm....funny. We drank more champagne, K and I got into my body guards panty's and we managed to fit 5 girls on the top bunk of a bunk bed...my bunk :) After the champagne was gone and the girls went to their own beds, which I think was just after D and I came back in from the final cigarette of the night, we layed down for the two glorious hours of sleep before we had to wake up and clean out Scala.

17 October, 2008
Sleep, oh precious sleep. Sometimes I wish I was really famous so other people could do clean up. Just like in Seattle (or almost anywhere else I go) I get to have tasks or are in charge of something. Sleeping in...never an option for me.
Miraculously the crew wakes up, with only a few hours sleep, in the best of moods. Ready to conquer the mountain that was decorations, merchandise, paperwork, all the things you need to put on a national competition and all the things you have to take home.
After a rather comical (at least I thought it was) loading of the van we took off to return to HQ. Rather beaten down, rode hard and put away wet, whatever you call it. What a great night we all kept saying. I know as I lay curled up in the bucket seat sleeping that the fun from the night before would be remembered forever! Or until next year takes over the memories :)
Finally arriving at HQ there definitely not as much life as before. I think the kids and grand dad were much more exciting then us lot. I played on facebook for awhile, we had a fantastic dindin and I went to bed without a care the world. Finally, with only two days left I am adjusting to the time change!

18 October, 2008
I just love waking up in the Pantera Suite to Ks beautiful voice saying, "Good morning," with a fresh cup of scrumptious tea and a small breaky to start the day perfect. This being my second to last day, I was sure to savor it for all its worth.
The drive into Worthing was quick with S Racer behind the wheel. One little quirk to todays morning was the endless line of Volkswagens. Some had the steering wheel on the right (normal in UK) and others had in on the left. Half of the passengers were waving at other vehicles while others just looked ready to reach their destination. I hadn't ever seen so many Volkswagens.

Arriving at the hotel in Worthing was a breath of fresh air. It was the first venue I had been to before. Its amazing how some things stay the same. There were banners on the walls featuring pictures and quotes of famous blues/r&b artists of the 50s, 60s and 70s. I can't remember who said this quote but it is now one of my favorites.

"I haven't a clue as to how my story will end. But that's all right. When you set out on a journey and night covers the road, you don't conclude the road has vanished. And how else could we discover the stars?"

I've googled the hell out of it trying to find its source but to no avail. I wish I had taken a picture of the darn thing. Should of, would of, could of....
Group classes started right on time with D, K, J, L, K, R, and K. I think at least half the classes was return students from 2006. With the ladies in this class not only was it a great time but very entertaining for me as well. Comics and eccentrics. Never ending fun.
M, L (from the group before), K (also from the group earlier) and J, who brought the most fantastic lady along with her and E. Those last three were a comical delight as well. If there is one thing I really love about the UK is people just seem a little more pleasant. Or at least they have enough care for people they come in contact with not to spill out personal drama on others. I think coming from personal drama now, like a true American!! AHHAA
After class, my personal body guard picked me up and we run off to Eastbourne, where we met up with S, K, D, her man, roommate and friends. What a great night. I don't think there are any pictures for me to worry to about. I think they are on my facebook anywho.

19 October, 2008
Holy Crapola!! After nine days of work, travel and well more work I am completely exhausted! One last day on the pole and these girls definitely swung me right into action!
Group was with K, G, H, L, P and V. Probably the most serious group of gals. Not to much social action but a lot of progress. I enjoy two girls on one pole as well. That is one thing that is very consistent when I come to the Uk and I'm not sure if it happens that way everywhere. It should. It ensures that there is always a spotter. Plus you take the time to watch some one else do it which is a great way to learn. When it is right in front of you, not on a video or on the internet.
Singles action included A and S together. The second time I got to see Annie this trip. Thank goodness cause I thought being ill would have kept her home in bed. Luckily she was feeling much better.
Next class was with G and G. These two high energy ladies were quite a handful! Nonstop enjoyment from beginning to end. I actually had to turn it up a bit to bring them down. I don't know if it was excitement, nerves or just love of what they had already known but they were so pumped up. I'll leave it to coffees at the bar!
After class the rest of the day was resting. I finally got adjusted to UK time and now I've got to go home. Its pretty poopy really but I will be coming back.